PUTRAJAYA – Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman says he remains “hopeful and optimistic” as he awaits the Court of Appeal’s verdict on his bid to overturn his conviction and jail sentence.
Speaking to reporters upon arriving at the Palace of Justice at 10.20 am today, Syed Saddiq said he placed his full trust in Allah and the judicial process.
“I’m hopeful and optimistic, and place my hopes fully on to Allah SWT and on the facts and data that has been tabled and deliberated before the esteemed judge who I respect,” he said.
“I also request friends from near and far to pray for justice to prevail. That is all I am asking for.”
When asked whether he felt nervous, the former youth and sports minister admitted to some anxiety but said waiting for the verdict had been more difficult than the decision itself.
“In my calmness, there must be a bit of jitteriness. But after five years, the process of waiting is far worse than the verdict day,” he said.
“And I know deep down inside, my conscience is clear that I am not guilty, and those words can only be proven by the institutions of justice and judiciary who I respect.”
Not long after Syed Saddiq’s arrival, actress Bella Astillah arrived at 10.28 am, dressed in all white, to show her support. She was accompanied by a female bodyguard and waved to the media before entering the building.
The Court of Appeal is expected to deliver its verdict today, but it has the discretion to defer its decision.
Syed Saddiq was convicted in November 2023 for abetting criminal breach of trust involving RM1 million in Bersatu Youth (Armada) funds, misusing RM120,000 from a bank account, and two money laundering charges.
He was sentenced to seven years in jail, two strokes of the rotan, and a RM10 million fine.
If his appeal succeeds, he will be acquitted, though the prosecution can still take the case to the Federal Court. If dismissed, he will have one final chance to appeal. – March 20, 2025